Sunderland fined for agent violation

Sunderland have been fined 100,000 pounds for an infringement of the Football Association's rules regarding agents.

The FA also imposed a two-year suspension on agent Abu Mahfuz, 18 months of which is suspended, for his role in the unspecified rules breach.

Sunderland admitted their guilt at an FA hearing but have the right to appeal against the six-figure punishment.

The FA said in a statement: "Following an independent regulatory commission hearing, Sunderland have been fined 100,000 pounds and warned as to their future conduct after the club admitted breaching the FA's football agents regulations.

"In relation to the same matter, Abu Mahfuz has had his agent licence suspended for two years with six months to be served starting from May 21 2014. The remaining 18 months is to be suspended and will be invoked upon a proven breach of the FA's agents regulations during that period.

"Mr Mahfuz, who was also fined 500 pounds and warned as to his future conduct, had denied breaching the FA's football agents regulations, however, the charge was found proven following an independent regulatory commission hearing.

"The above sanctions are subject to any appeal."

Mahfuz is listed by the FA on its website as an independent FA licensed agent.